Hank Willis Thomas surrounded by art and sculptures inside creative havens in Brooklyn studio.

Inside the Creative Havens of Trailblazing Black Artists: A Glimpse Through ‘Another View’

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Written by Sam Johnson

2026-09-19

Exploring the creative sanctuaries of 20 influential artists

An artist’s studio can reveal much about their craft and personality. While some maintain a neat and orderly environment, others immerse themselves in a dynamic chaos that fuels their creativity. These unique settings afford us a closer look at the minds behind the masterpieces and allow us to step into these artistic refuges.

Coming soon from Phaidon, Another View: The Vibrant World of Contemporary Black Artists unveils the creative spaces of 20 groundbreaking artists. The book spotlights figures like Nick Cave, Nina Chanel Abney, Hank Willis Thomas, Carrie Mae Weems, and Kerry James Marshall, complete with insightful behind-the-scenes content in their workspaces.

For those interested in contemporary art, Jacob Hashimoto’s mesmerizing mosaic offers a new perspective worth exploring.

Inside Creative Havens: Foreword by Henry Louis Gates, Jr.

Renowned literary critic and filmmaker Henry Louis Gates, Jr. introduces the volume, shedding light on the historical and cultural forces shaping today’s dynamic Black contemporary art scene. The book spans nearly 200 pages and features 150 exclusive photographs, interviews, and artist profiles in their studios.

The much-anticipated Another View: The Vibrant World of Contemporary Black Artists will be available from October 28, allowing readers to explore the journey through these creative spaces.

Theaster Gates working in a light-filled studio in Chicago, surrounded by art materials.
Theaster Gates, Chicago
Derrick Adams standing in his Brooklyn workspace surrounded by colorful artworks.
Derrick Adams, Brooklyn
Mickalene Thomas’ Brooklyn studio with vibrant paintings and organized art supplies.
Mickalene Thomas’ studio, Brooklyn
Carrie Mae Weems’ studio with proof prints from Blues & Pinks series in Brooklyn.
Carrie Mae Weems’ studio, proof prints from the Blues & Pinks series (2020), Brooklyn
Book cover of 'Another View' featuring abstract design elements and vibrant colors.
the book cover for another view

Source: thisiscolossal.com

Frequently asked questions

What is the book Another View about?

Another View: The Vibrant World of Contemporary Black Artists unveils the creative spaces of 20 groundbreaking artists, offering a glimpse into their workspaces and providing insightful behind-the-scenes content.

Who wrote the foreword for Another View?

The foreword for Another View is written by renowned literary critic and filmmaker Henry Louis Gates, Jr.

When will Another View be available?

Another View: The Vibrant World of Contemporary Black Artists will be available from October 28.